Guideline for Implementation of California Civil Code Sections Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures

Transcription

1 Guideline for Implementation of California Civil Code Sections Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures Information Bulletin No. IB-021 Effective: January 1, 2014 By: Chief Building Official For Public Use City of Concord Community and Economic Development 1950 Parkside Drive, MS/51 Concord, CA (925) Fax (925) CODE REFERENCE(S): Senate Bill 407 (2009) / California Civil Code Sections through California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) Section 301 BACKGROUND: As of January 1, 2014, SB 407 requires non-compliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures when a property is undergoing additions, alterations or improvements. Applicants seeking to obtain permits for any of these types of work will be required to replace non-compliant fixtures prior to final permit approval or issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the local building department. This law applies only to properties built on or before January 1, Per Civil Code Section , for any single-family residential real property, on and after January 1, 2014, building addition, alteration or improvement will require all non-compliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with waterconserving plumbing fixtures. On or before January 1, 2017, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures (regardless of whether property undergoes alterations or improvements). Per Civil Code Section , for any multifamily residential real property and any commercial real property, on and after January 1, 2014, specified building addition, alteration or improvement will require non-compliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. On or before January 1, 2019, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures (regardless of whether property undergoes alterations or improvements). This guideline is for the application and interpretation of SB 407/Civil Code Sections The language in SB 407 appears to set very broad criteria for triggering plumbing fixture replacements. Based on the California Building Official s (CALBO) Legislative Analysis published on October 30, 2013 and Tri-Valley Uniform Code Committee s (TUCC) Policy 19, this guideline establishes the application of SB 407 by clarifying definitions and triggers and providing interpretation. This guideline also includes a self-certification form that will be used by the property owner to self-certify compliance under a building permit. This information bulletin is based upon TUCC Policy 19 guidelines with some minor modifications and clarifications. GUIDELINES: Application and Interpretation of SB 407 / Civil Code Sections Work Not Triggering SB 407 Consistent with CALBO s analysis of SB 407 and current building codes and based on the definitions in the California Building Code, alterations and improvements are interpreted as any construction to an existing structure that enhances or improves the structure. Construction related to repairs or maintenance of the structure is not considered to be an alteration or improvement. Through this interpretation, SB 407 only applies to permitted additions, alterations or improvements. In other words, repair or maintenance will not trigger plumbing fixture upgrades.

2 In addition, in Civil Code Section (a), the improvements to a single-family real property are interpreted to refer to the work on the building, not the land. For a multifamily residential or commercial real property, Civil Code Sections (d)(1)(A), (B) and (C) refer to the work on the building as the trigger. It is interpreted that the same intent was meant for single-family real property. Therefore, work on the land (work that does not require entry into the structure) is not considered to trigger plumbing fixture upgrades in the structure. Also, work that does not involve construction to the structure itself is not considered to trigger plumbing fixture upgrades in the structure. Furthermore, work related to renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic installations and electric vehicle charging stations, is interpreted to not trigger plumbing fixture upgrades as it would conflict with the state s goal of promoting and streamlining these systems. Voluntary accessibility upgrades are also interpreted to not trigger plumbing fixture upgrades. Therefore, for existing single-family residential, multifamily residential and commercial buildings, the following list of work is considered not to trigger SB 407/Civil Code Sections through : Changes to electrical systems, e.g., electrical service upgrades Changes to mechanical systems, e.g., HVAC or furnace replacement, duct replacement Water heater replacement, piping replacement, sewer line replacement Re-roof Siding, stucco or any exterior finish replacement Window replacement (including sliding glass or front door) Chimney repair Dry rot repair Termite repair Foundation repair Seismic retrofit New or altered roof-mounted solar systems Electric vehicle charging stations Building signs Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal (voluntary accessibility upgrades) Work not associated with the building itself is not considered to trigger plumbing fixture upgrades in the building, e.g.: o Swimming pools or spas (in-ground or portable) o Site work: Retaining walls, fences, walkways, landscaping, etc. o Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems o Monument signs Work in one building is not considered to trigger plumbing fixture upgrades in another building (e.g., work in the following structure would not trigger upgrades in the separate single-family residential building): o Accessory structures, sheds or patio covers o Detached garages o Second units Work associated with U-Occupancy groups (attached or detached) Existing bathroom or existing kitchen upgrades will be limited to replacing the fixtures within the area of the remodel Other work as determined by the Building Official Permits for the above list of work may be obtained without triggering plumbing fixture upgrades. Page 2

3 When Work Triggers SB 407 When the work will trigger plumbing fixture upgrades, the following clarification and interpretation is made for each type of building: Single-family residential: All non-compliant plumbing fixtures will be required to be upgraded with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout the single-family residential building. [Civil Code Section (a)] Multifamily residential and commercial: For building additions, if the sum of concurrent building permits by the same permit applicant would increase the floor area of the building by more than 10%, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures will be required to be upgraded with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout the building. [Civil Code Section (d)(1)(A)] This would include all common area plumbing fixtures as well as plumbing fixtures in private individual dwelling unit or tenant unit owned by the same owner. For building alterations or improvements, if the total construction cost in the building permit exceeds $150,000, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures that service the specific area of the alteration or improvement will be required to be upgraded with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. [Civil Code Section (d)(1)(B)] Any alteration to a room that contains non-compliant plumbing fixtures will require all the fixtures in that room to be upgraded to water-conserving plumbing fixtures. [Civil Code Section (d)(1)(C)] Interpretation for Duplex (Two-Family Dwelling) and Second Unit Civil Code Section defines single-family residential real property as any real property that is improved with, or consisting of, a building containing not more than one unit that is intended for human habitation. It also defines multifamily residential real property as any real property that is improved with, or consisting of, a building containing more than one unit that is intended for human habitation. To maintain consistency with the scope and application of the building and residential code, for purposes of applying Civil Code Sections through , a real property consisting of a duplex (two-family dwelling) will be considered a single-family residential real property. Alterations to one dwelling unit will trigger plumbing fixture upgrades within that unit only and not the adjacent unit. A real property consisting of a single-family residence with either a detached or attached second unit will also be considered a single-family residential real property. Alterations to the residence will trigger plumbing fixture upgrades within the residence only and not the second unit, and vice versa. Clarification of Non-Compliant Plumbing Fixture Please note that according to the definition of non-compliant plumbing fixture in Civil Code Section (c), the existing plumbing fixture water usage/flow rate must exceed the amount shown to be considered non-compliant. If the existing plumbing fixture water usage/flow rate is equal to or lower than the amount shown, it is not required to be upgraded. Page 3

4 Implementation of SB 407 / Civil Code Sections City of Concord will utilize self-certification by the property owner in lieu of inspections. This information guideline includes a sample certification form that shall be used by the property owner. This certification will be required prior to final permit approval or issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the City of Concord. Self-certification provides a reasonable mechanism for the City of Concord in serving as the method of enforcement as water-conserving plumbing fixtures are not life-safety items. It also ensures that property owners are fully informed of the requirements. Civil Code Section (b) requires the property owner to upgrade with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout a single-family residence by January 1, Civil Code Section (a) requires upgrading with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout multifamily residential and commercial real properties by January 1, The self-certification method places the responsibility on the property owner, which is consistent with these Civil Code Sections. It is also aligned with the intent of the disclosure requirements upon sale or transfer of property per Civil Code Sections (c) and (e). The self-certification method is used for existing single-family residential, multifamily residential and commercial buildings. For the three criteria in Civil Code Section that would render plumbing fixture upgrades inapplicable, the certification places the responsibility on the property owner to indicate whether any of the criteria is true. Attached is the sample certification form with Civil Code Sections included as part of the form. Page 4

5 CITY OF CONCORD 1950 Parkside Drive, MS/51 Concord, CA Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures Certificate of Compliance by Property Owner Owner Name Permit No. Address PERMIT CANNOT BE FINALED AND COMPLETED UNTIL THIS CERTIFICATE HAS BEEN SIGNED AND RETURNED TO THE BUILDING DIVISION Please refer to the attached California Civil Code Sections which are part of this Certification form. 1. Is your real property a registered historical site? Yes. Civil Code Sections through do not apply. Sign below and skip the rest of the form. No. Go to Question Does your real property have a licensed plumber certifying that, due to the age or configuration of the property or its plumbing, installation of water-conserving plumbing fixtures is not technically feasible? Yes. Civil Code Sections through do not apply. The licensed plumber s certification has been provided to the Building Division. Sign below and skip the rest of the form. No. Go to Question Is water service permanently disconnected for your building? Yes. Civil Code Sections through do not apply. Sign below and skip the rest of the form. No. Go to Question Is your real property built and available for use or occupancy on or before January 1, 1994? No. My real property is built and available for use or occupancy after January 1, Civil Code Sections through do not apply. Sign below and skip the rest of the form. Yes. My real property is built and available for use or occupancy on or before January 1, Civil Code Sections through apply. Refer to the attached. My property is a single-family residential real property. See Civil Code Section On and after January 1, 2014, building alterations or improvements shall require all non-compliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout the building. On or before January 1, 2017, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures (regardless of whether property undergoes alterations or improvements). My property is a multifamily residential real property. See Civil Code Section On and after January 1, 2014, specified building alterations or improvements shall require non-compliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. On or before January 1, 2019, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures throughout the building (regardless of whether property undergoes alterations or improvements).

6 My property is a commercial real property. See Civil Code Section On and after January 1, 2014, specified building alterations or improvements shall require noncompliant plumbing fixtures to be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. On or before January 1, 2019, all non-compliant plumbing fixtures shall be replaced with waterconserving plumbing fixtures throughout the building (regardless of whether property undergoes alterations or improvements). I/We, the owner(s) of this property, certify under penalty of perjury that non-compliant plumbing fixtures have been replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures in accordance with Civil Code Sections through , the current California Plumbing Code and California Green Building Standards Code, and manufacturer s installation requirements, and that the water-conserving plumbing fixtures comply with the requirements as indicated in the table below. Upon completing and signing this Certificate, please return it to the City of Concord Building Division in order to final your permit.

7 Fixture Type Water Closets (Toilets) Non-Compliant Plumbing Fixture 1 Water Usage /Flow Rate Exceed 1.6 gallons/flush Urinals Exceed 1.0 gallon/flush Showerheads Exceed 2.5 gallons per minute Faucets Lavatory Faucets Exceed 2.2 gallons per minute Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixture (Fixture Complying with Current Code Applicable to New Construction) 2013 CPC Ch CALGreen Div. 4.3 Single-Family Residential Maximum Water Usage/Flow Rate 2013 CPC Ch CALGreen Div. 4.3 Multifamily 2013 CPC Ch CALGreen Div. 5.3 Commercial Residential Single flush toilets: 1.28 gallons/flush Dual flush toilets: 1.28 gallons/flush effective flush volume (the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush) 0.5 gallons/flush 2.0 gallons per 80 psi. Also certified to the performance criteria of U.S. EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads (A hand-held shower is considered a showerhead.) For multiple showerheads serving one shower, the combined flow rate of all showerheads and/or other shower outlets controlled by a single valve shall not exceed 2.0 gallons per 80 psi, or the shower shall be designed to allow only one shower outlet to be in operation at a time. Maximum 1.5 gallons per ; minimum 0.8 gallons per 20 psi Within units: Maximum 1.5 gallons per ; minimum 0.8 gallons per 20 psi 0.5 gallons per Faucets Kitchen Faucets Exceed 2.2 gallons per minute May temporarily increase up to 2.2 gallons per and must default to maximum Where faucets meeting the above are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction. In common and public use areas: 0.5 gallons per May temporarily increase up to 2.2 gallons per and must default to maximum Where faucets meeting the above are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction. 1. If the existing plumbing fixture water usage/flow rate is equal to or lower than the figure shown, it is not required to be upgraded.

8 CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE SECTIONS Civil Code Division 2. Property Part 4. Acquisition of Property Title 4. Transfer Chapter 2. Transfer of Real Property Article 1.4. Installation of Water Use Efficiency Improvements The Legislature finds and declares all of the following: (a) Adequate water supply reliability for all uses is essential to the future economic and environmental health of California. (b) Environmentally sound strategies to meet future water supply and wastewater treatment needs are key to protecting and restoring aquatic resources in California. (c) There is a pressing need to address water supply reliability issues raised by growing urban areas. (d) Economic analysis by urban water agencies has identified urban water conservation as a cost-effective approach to addressing water supply needs. (e) There are many water conservation practices that produce significant energy and other resource savings that should be encouraged as a matter of state policy. (f) Since the 1991 signing of the "Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Urban Water Conservation in California," many urban water and wastewater treatment agencies have gained valuable experience that can be applied to produce significant statewide savings of water, energy, and associated infrastructure costs. This experience indicates a need to regularly revise and update water conservation methodologies and practices. (g) To address these concerns, it is the intent of the Legislature to require that residential and commercial real property built and available for use or occupancy on or before January 1, 1994, be equipped with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. (h) It is further the intent of the Legislature that retail water suppliers are encouraged to provide incentives, financing mechanisms, and funding to assist property owners with these retrofit obligations Except as provided in Section , this article shall apply to residential and commercial real property built and available for use on or before January 1, For the purposes of this article: (a) "Commercial real property" means any real property that is improved with, or consisting of, a building that is intended for commercial use, including hotels and motels, that is not a single-family residential real property or a multifamily residential real property. (b) "Multifamily residential real property" means any real property that is improved with, or consisting of, a building containing more than one unit that is intended for human habitation, or any mixed residential-commercial buildings or portions thereof that are intended for human habitation. Multifamily residential real property includes residential hotels but does not include hotels and motels that are not residential hotels. (c) "Noncompliant plumbing fixture" means any of the following: (1) Any toilet manufactured to use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. (2) Any urinal manufactured to use more than one gallon of water per flush. (3) Any showerhead manufactured to have a flow capacity of more than 2.5 gallons of water per minute. (4) Any interior faucet that emits more than 2.2 gallons of water per minute. (d) "Single-family residential real property" means any real property that is improved with, or consisting of, a building containing not more than one unit that is intended for human habitation. (e) "Water-conserving plumbing fixture" means any fixture that is in compliance with current building standards applicable to a newly constructed real property of the same type. (f) "Sale or transfer" means the sale or transfer of an entire real property estate or the fee interest in that real property estate and does not include the sale or transfer of a partial interest, including a leasehold (a) On and after January 1, 2014, for all building alterations or improvements to single-family residential real property, as a condition for issuance of a certificate of final completion and occupancy or final permit approval by the local building department, the permit applicant shall replace all noncompliant plumbing fixtures with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. (b) On or before January 1, 2017, noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any single-family residential real property shall be replaced by the property owner with water-conserving plumbing fixtures.

9 (c) On and after January 1, 2017, a seller or transferor of single-family residential real property shall disclose in writing to the prospective purchaser or transferee the requirements of subdivision (b) and whether the real property includes any noncompliant plumbing fixtures (a) On or before January 1, 2019, all noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any multifamily residential real property and in any commercial real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. (b) An owner or the owner's agent may enter the owner's property for the purpose of installing, repairing, testing, and maintaining water-conserving plumbing fixtures required by this section, consistent with notice requirements of Section (c) On and after January 1, 2019, the water-conserving plumbing fixtures required by this section shall be operating at the manufacturer's rated water consumption at the time that the tenant takes possession. A tenant shall be responsible for notifying the owner or owner's agent if the tenant becomes aware that a water-conserving plumbing fixture within his or her unit is not operating at the manufacturer's rated water consumption. The owner or owner's agent shall correct an inoperability in a water-conserving plumbing fixture upon notice by the tenant or if detected by the owner or the owner's agent. (d) (1) On and after January 1, 2014, all noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any multifamily residential real property and any commercial residential real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures in the following circumstances: (A) For building additions in which the sum of concurrent building permits by the same permit applicant would increase the floor area of the space in a building by more than 10 percent, the building permit applicant shall replace all noncompliant plumbing fixtures in the building. (B) For building alterations or improvements in which the total construction cost estimated in the building permit is greater than one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000), the building permit applicant shall replace all noncompliant plumbing fixtures that service the specific area of the improvement. (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) or (B), for any alterations or improvements to a room in a building that require a building permit and that room contains any noncompliant plumbing fixtures, the building permit applicant shall replace all noncompliant plumbing fixtures in that room. (2) Replacement of all noncompliant plumbing fixtures with water-conserving plumbing fixtures, as described in paragraph (1), shall be a condition for issuance of a certificate of final completion and occupancy or final permit approval by the local building department. (e) On and after January 1, 2019, a seller or transferor of multifamily residential real property or of commercial real property shall disclose to the prospective purchaser or transferee, in writing, the requirements of subdivision (a) and whether the property includes any noncompliant plumbing fixtures. This disclosure may be included in other transactional documents The duty of an owner or building permit applicant to comply with the requirements of this article shall be postponed for one year from the date of issuance of a demolition permit for the building. If the building is demolished within the one-year postponement, the requirements of this article shall not apply. If the building is not demolished after the expiration of one year, the provisions of this article shall apply, subject to appeal to the local building department, even though the demolition permit is still in effect or a new demolition permit has been issued This article shall not apply to any of the following: (a) Registered historical sites. (b) Real property for which a licensed plumber certifies that, due to the age or configuration of the property or its plumbing, installation of water-conserving plumbing fixtures is not technically feasible. (c) A building for which water service is permanently disconnected A city, county, or city and county, or a retail water supplier may do either of the following: (a) Enact local ordinances or establish policies that promote compliance with this article. (b) Enact local ordinances or establish policies that will result in a greater amount of water savings than those provided for in this article. N:\Concord Data\Information Bulletins - Concord\IB-021 Civil Code Water Conservation Fixtures.r1.doc